Driver Medical Test
HGV Medicals Explained: What Drivers Need to Know Before Age 45, 65 & Beyond
Becoming or remaining an HGV driver in the UK means taking responsibility for your health and fitness to drive safely. The HGV medical examination is a vital requirement from the DVLA.
(Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) that ensures every driver meets the medical standards needed to hold a commercial licence.
Whether you’re applying for your first licence, approaching age 45, or renewing it after 65, understanding how and when these medicals are required can save you time, stress, and potential licence delays.
Why the HGV Medical Matters
The HGV medical isn’t just a formality, it’s a legal safety measure. Driving large or heavy goods vehicles demands focus, stamina, and good health. This medical ensures you’re physically fit for professional driving and helps:
- Protect you and other road users.
- Identify potential health risks early.
- Keep your licence valid and DVLA-compliant.
Keeping up with your medicals also demonstrates professionalism and responsibility as a commercial driver.
Before Age 45
If you’re applying for your first HGV licence before turning 45, you’ll need to complete an initial medical assessment.
Once passed, your licence remains valid until your 45th birthday.
At this stage, most drivers have no difficulty passing, but it’s still important to meet the DVLA’s health and vision standards.
At Age 45
Once you reach 45, you must renew your HGV licence with a fresh medical examination. From this point on, the DVLA requires a new medical every five years, at ages 50, 55, 60, and 65.
It’s best to book your appointment in advance to avoid any gap between renewals that could prevent you from working.
At Age 65 and Beyond
After turning 65, your medical becomes an annual requirement.
This ensures age-related changes in health are monitored closely. Common areas of focus include:
- Blood pressure and heart health.
- Vision and peripheral awareness
- Diabetes control
- Neurological or sleep conditions
Being proactive with your health makes renewals faster and easier every year.
What Happens During the Examination
The typical HGV D4 medical examination lasts 15–20 minutes and includes:
- Vision test – To check eyesight clarity, field of view, and ability to recognise road signs.
- Blood pressure check – To ensure cardiovascular health meets safe driving standards.
- Medical history review – Covers conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or sleep disorders.
- Hearing and reflex tests – To confirm awareness and response times.
- General health check – Including height, weight, and coordination.
If you manage any existing conditions, bring recent GP or specialist reports to support your assessment.
Common Reasons Drivers Fail an HGV Medical
Most drivers pass without issue, but some fail due to preventable health problems, such as:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Poor or uncorrected vision.
- Poorly managed diabetes.
- Untreated sleep apnoea.
- Alcohol or drug misuse.
To avoid these pitfalls, manage your health year-round and keep your GP updated about any medical changes.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Proper preparation makes your medical quick and stress-free. Follow these simple steps:
- Book early – Don’t wait until your licence is close to expiring.
- Bring all documents – D4 form, ID, and relevant medical records.
- Rest well – Fatigue can raise blood pressure.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol – They can affect your readings.
- Be honest – Full disclosure ensures accurate results and avoids DVLA complications.
The Role of the D4 Form
The D4 form is the DVLA’s official record of your driver medical results.
Your examining doctor fills it out, and you must check all details carefully before submitting.
Any mistakes or missing information can delay licence approval — so take a few minutes to verify everything before sending it to the DVLA.
Taxi and Private Hire Drivers
While this article focuses on HGV drivers, taxi and private hire drivers follow similar medical standards. These are often set by local councils but still align closely with DVLA’s Group 2 driver medical requirements.
If you hold both HGV and taxi licences, your taxi medical may cover both, saving time during renewals.
Why Regular Medicals Are Essential
Regular driver medicals aren’t just about compliance, they’re about safety and longevity in your career.
Consistent checkups help you:
- Detect early signs of health issues.
- Maintain high driving performance.
- Renew your licence without delays
Treating your medical as a professional routine ensures you stay safe, compliant, and confident behind the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the DVLA D4 Medical Form
1. How often do HGV drivers need a medical?
 When first applying, at age 45, then every five years until 65. After 65, the medical becomes annual.
2. What conditions can affect the results?
 High blood pressure, poor eyesight, diabetes, or untreated sleep disorders can all impact your assessment.
3. What should I bring to my medical?
Your D4 form, photo ID, any glasses or contact lenses, and details of medications or GP reports.
4. Can I fail after 65?
Yes, if health standards aren’t met — but with good management and regular GP visits, most drivers pass easily.
5. Where can I book an HGV medical near me?
Book through an approved provider like DriverMedicalTest, offering fast, affordable medicals across the UK.
